Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji May 22 – June 5, 2021

No matter how much you hear about the 118 islands that comprise the 5 idyllic archipelagos that make up French Polynesia, nothing can prepare you for the breathtaking scenery of the islands’ towering volcanic peaks, rugged cliffs, emerald lagoons and stunning palm-fringed beaches. Despite being heavily influenced by French culture, the region has managed to retain its own colourful and distinctive culture through its traditional food, music, and local handicrafts. Divers and snorkelers can marvel at the area’s extraordinary range of marine life, while hikers explore the islands' lush jungle-clad volcanic mountains. History enthusiasts are equally well sated with numerous archaeological sites revealing traces from its Pre-European past. With all of this remarkable scenery, diverse marine life and fascinating culture on offer, it is no wonder that French Polynesia has become one of the Pacific’s most exclusive and popular tourist destinations

Currency 

Local currency: CFP Franc 
Symbol: ₣ 
ISO code: XPF 
Subunit: Centime 
Banknotes: ₣500, ₣1000, ₣5000, ₣10000 
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 Francs 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Air Tahiti Nui, Air Tahiti 
International Airports: Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) 
Domestic Airports: Bora Bora Airport, Raiatea Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Limited 
Local city bus networks: Limited 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

French Polynesian cuisine reflects its Pacific island setting with an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and indigenous ingredients. Popular dishes include Poisson Cru (marinated raw fish), Mahi Mahi (dolphinfish), and Tuna Tartare. Notable local drinks include Hinano beer, Tahitian Rum, and fresh fruit juices. 

Tipping: 10% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by island 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 22°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 28°C 
Average lows: 20°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit French Polynesia is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Not Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: No 

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 120V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 

Idyllically located in the South Pacific Ocean midway between New Zealand and Hawaii, the remarkably picturesque Cook Islands are comprised of 15 unique islands. This remote, exquisitely beautiful island paradise is blessed with a warm tropical climate, fabulously friendly Polynesian locals and a wonderfully peaceful pace of life. The islands boast some glorious white-sand beaches, and palm-fringed turquoise lagoons all presided over by majestic volcanic peaks. Adventurous travellers can get their adrenaline fix with an array of outdoor pursuits such as surfing, wake-boarding, paddle boarding and hiking mountainous jungles dotted with breathtaking waterfalls. More sedentary visitors can indulge in some luxurious spa pampering, explore the lively night-markets or simply relax on a beach lounger with a cocktail in one hand and a good book in the other. Whatever your preference, this exceptionally gorgeous and tranquil island getaway will prove irresistible.

Currency 

Local currency: Cook Islands Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: None (NZD often used) 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $3, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: No 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Limited 

Air: 

Main airlines: Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia 
International Airports: Rarotonga International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Aitutaki Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Limited 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Limited 
Local city bus networks: No 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Limited 

Local cuisine: 

Cook Islands cuisine is influenced by Polynesian, British, and Asian flavors. Seafood plays a significant role, with dishes like ikamata (raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk) being popular. Tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple are abundant. Notable local drinks include coconut water and fresh fruit juices. 

Tipping: Not customary 

Annual rainfall: 2000 - 2500 mm 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 29°C 
Average lows: 22°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 26°C 
Average lows: 20°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit the Cook Islands is from May to October, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and warm. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Commonly known as the 'Friendly Islands' due to its remarkably warm and welcoming locals, Tonga is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprised of over 170 scenic tropical islands. Dramatic volcanic landscapes are complemented by lush rainforests, clear lagoons, colourful coral atolls and exquisite beaches, providing a range of diverse habitats for a variety of exotic wildlife. Believed to have been inhabited as far back as the 5th century BC, Tonga boasts a rich history with fascinating archaeological sites, including the terraced tombs in the Lapaha area of Tongatapu Island. Whether you are keen to enjoy the area’s first-class diving opportunities or spot the humpback whales at one of the world’s finest whale-watching spots, Tonga makes an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing Pacific getaway.

Currency 

Local currency: Tongan Pa'anga 
Symbol: T$ 
ISO code: TOP 
Subunit: Seniti 
Banknotes: T$1, T$2, T$5, T$10, T$20, T$50, T$100 
Coins: Seniti, T$1, T$2, T$5, T$10, T$20 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: No 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Real Tonga 
International Airports: Fuaʻamotu International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Lifuka Airport, Vava'u International Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: No 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Tongan cuisine is characterized by fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables. Traditional dishes include lusipi (steamed lamb with taro leaves), 'ota 'ika (marinated raw fish salad), and 'umu (earth oven-cooked meals). Notable local drinks include kava, made from the root of the pepper plant, and coconut water. 
Tipping: Not customary 

Annual rainfall: 1,700 mm 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 23°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 28°C 
Average lows: 21°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Tonga is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Not Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: No 

Fiji is a Melanesian country in the South Pacific Ocean consisting of an archipelago that includes 332 islands. Towering volcanic mountains characterize this exquisite island nation; warm, crystal-clear, tropical waters; spectacular coral reefs; tropical rainforests; coconut plantations; breathtaking waterfalls and of course some of the world’s most pristine beaches. With its abundance of fascinating attractions, jaw-dropping scenery, warm and welcoming locals and cultural and sporting activities aplenty, Fiji is a paradise for nature lovers, culture vultures and sport enthusiasts alike. With over three hundred islands to choose from, Fiji is an amazingly versatile destination. Whether you are seeking a secluded romantic honeymoon retreat, a vibrant and boisterous backpacker island or a family-friendly resort, Fiji has something for everyone.

Currency 

Local currency: Fijian Dollar 
Symbol: FJ$ 
ISO code: FJD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: FJ$5, FJ$10, FJ$20, FJ$50, FJ$100 
Coins: 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, FJ$1, FJ$2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Fiji Airways 
International Airports: Nadi International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Nausori International Airport, Labasa Airport, Savusavu Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Fijian cuisine reflects the islands' diverse cultural heritage, blending indigenous Fijian, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. Staples include seafood, tropical fruits, taro, coconut, and root vegetables. Notable local drinks include kava (a traditional ceremonial drink), Fiji Bitter beer, and fresh coconut water. 

Tipping: Not customary 

Annual rainfall: 1,700 - 3,000 mm 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 22°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 29°C 
Average lows: 19°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Fiji is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes